STAR WARS AFICIONADO MAGAZINE

EPISODE I PREVIEW SCREENING COMPETITION WINNERS...

2012-01-29T12:07:00.001Z

The French poster for the upcoming EPISODE I re-release in 3D.

THE PHANTOM MENACE makes its return next month, and we're pleased to announce that the winners of tickets to the upcoming London preview screening were Mariana Camacho and Jason W.

Congratulations, and enjoy the film back on the big screen- where it belongs!

CLASSIC INDY: MUSICAL GIFTS...

2012-01-29T10:39:00.000Z

Harrison Ford returns to play an older version of Indiana Jones, wearing his beard well and revealing his saxophone playing history, for the feature length 1993 YOUNG INDIANA JONES TV series episode Young Indiana Jones and the Mystery of the Blues, designed as a second season launcher to win viewers back into watching the young audience educational series, of which Ford filmed all his snowbound scenes near his home in Jackson,Wyoming as a favour to George Lucas.

Clip: Young Indiana Jones & The Mystery Of The Blues (better Quality w/ tv preview) - YouTube

"THE CLONE WARS" SEASON FOUR: INTO "THE BOX"

2012-01-28T19:02:00.000Z

An early helmet design rendered by Ralph McQuarrie for a "Super Commando", conceived by George Lucas for STAR WARS II in 1977, and eventually becoming THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK's iconic and disreputable character of bounty hunter Boba Fett in 1979. This excellent original design is finally becoming an animated reality, for another of Fett's kind, Raco Hardeem, master marksman of Concord Dawn, who appears as part of Count Dooku's assembled force in next week's US premiere episode screening of THE CLONE WARS Season Four, titled The Box.

Clip: The Clone Wars The Box - Episode Preview 4.17 +melkor(SWP) - YouTube

GOODBYE, IAN ABERCROMBIE...

2012-01-28T10:39:00.002Z

The sad news has come in States-side that popular British actor Ian Abercrombie, most well known to STAR WARS fans as the voice of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine (above) and Darth Sidious in the long-running THE CLONE WARS animated series, has passed away. He was 77. Amongst a diverse body of work, primarily in America, his popular fantasy genre credits would include TV series like TWIN PEAKS, BIRDS OF PREY, BABYLON 5, STAR TREK: VOYAGER, BATTLESTAR GALACTICA and BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, whilst noted film work included THE LOST WORLD: JURASSIC PARK, ARMY OF DARKNESS and THE ADDAMS FAMILY VALUES. Abercrombie's distinctive voice also see in a very popular career in numerous animated series, including THE CLONE WARS and films like the recently released, Johnny Depp starring RANGO.

His friend and Supervising Animation Director on THE CLONE WARS series, Dave Filoni, posted this lovely tribute to the fine actor on his FACEBOOK page:

Today is a very sad day for Star Wars fans, as we lost a dear friend in Ian Abercrombie. You know him better as the voice of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine on The Clone Wars. I cannot express how thankful I am to have had the opportunity to work with Ian. He was extremely passionate about his role on the series and he was brilliant at it. I always called him “Chancellor” no matter where we were, in the studio or out at a restaurant. I think he enjoyed that a great deal. I learned so much from him about directing actors, and working with dialog. His advice and mentoring will be sorely missed by all of us. Though he played a villain on our show, you would be hard pressed to meet a kinder person. He loved to laugh and his sense of humor always lightened our record sessions. I will miss his stories, I will miss his performances, and I will miss his contribution to our show.

My friend, the Force will be with you, always, and you will never be forgotten.

Farewell

Dave

Ian Abercrombie: 1934 - 2012

Our condolences and best wishes go out to Mister Abercrombie's family and friends in this sad time.

CLASSIC IMAGE: A HAPPY GAMORREAN!

2012-01-27T11:14:00.000Z

A bulky and distinctive Gamorrean Guard poses for an iconic publicity image for REVENGE (later RETURN) OF THE JEDI, against the red sails and mighty laser cannon on the top deck of Jabba's incredible Sail Barge, an exterior set constructed in all its visual grandeur on location in Yuma, Arizona during 1981/early 1982.

CLASSIC ART: GRIN AND BARE IT!

2012-01-26T15:42:00.000Z

Darth Maul gives us his best feral grin on the cover of Ryder Windham's latest young readers STAR WARS biography book: The Wrath of Darth Maul. The title is out now in the US and has had positive word of mouth reviews. Sadly, British SW fans will only be able to get it on import from Amazon and the like as we heard yesterday that SCHOLASTIC's UK book line will not be releasing it, nor any other future STAR WARS titles, despite the imminent release of EPISODE I in 3D at cinemas next month.

A real shame, and an end of an era, especially after the enjoyable run the publishers had with the Classic Trilogy's REBEL FORCE series written by Alex Wheeler...

BEHIND THE SCENES IMAGE: COVER-UP!

2012-01-26T11:33:00.000Z

It's head and mount protected from the cold winds and inhibiting snow of the Finse winter, one of the two Stuart Freeborn created beasts of Hoth-the full sized, and sadly barely working animatronic Tauntaun- is transported to and fro from its various required shooting destinations, during March 1979 filming of THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK.

STAR WARS AT 35: THE LOST "STAR WARS" STRIP ADAPTATION

2012-01-25T11:59:00.000Z

Back to the beginning for Al Williamson's never completed STAR WARS adaptation.

Before he and iconic comics writer Archie Goodwin fully collaborated on the LOS ANGELES TIMES SYNDICATE STAR WARS newspaper strips set between STAR WARS and EMPIRE, and then later between EMPIRE and JEDI, the late, great artist Al Williamson had worked with his scribe compatriot on some B/W test strips for a 1978 adaptation of the original STAR WARS, their involvement in the saga specially requested by George Lucas, who particularly loved the duo's prior work over the years. Sadly, due to other more pressing project commitments by Williamson, a full strip adaptation was never completed or officially released, but in his 1983 Art of Al Williamson book a few examples of this great work did eventually see the light of day (of which two weeks worth of art had been completed before the project died).

As far as I'm aware, DARK HORSE comics never published this material when they did their popular publishing strand of the LATS material, so here's hoping that someone showcases this great art at some point in the not too distant future...

For more on Al Williamson's superb work, in both STAR WARS and comics mediums in general, check out this great Blog feature: FRED EGG COMICS

AFICIONADO COMPETITION: 2 PAIRS OF TICKETS TO AN ADVANCE LONDON SCREENING OF "EPISODE I: THE PHANTOM MENACE"!

2012-01-23T17:44:00.003Z

The STAR WARS SAGA is back on the Big Screen. Where it belongs. And now in 3D, too!

To celebrate the release of Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace 3D which arrives in cinemas February 9th, we are giving away two pairs of tickets to an exclusive advance screening on Wednesday the 8^th February. The screening will take place at a West End venue (this will be revealed once you receive your ticket), in a galaxy far, far away. Storm Troopers will open the doors at 5:30pm, followed by action in the foyer. The saga will begin at 6:30pm.

To enter the competition, just tell us the name of Jedi Knight Qui-Gon Jinn's Padawan learner from Episode I, and send your answer by email to: (email address now removed to avoid spam messages) subject marked EPISODE I COMPETITION.

The closing date for the competition is this Thursday the 26th January.

Winning names will be picked out from our favourite 1977 Don Post Studio Darth Vader mask!

Good Luck, and May the Force be with you!

With thanks to our friends from 20th CENTURY FOX and SUBSTANCE.

DELETED SCENE AND RE-SHOOT: THE MEDICAL FRIGATE FINALE OF "EMPIRE"

2012-01-22T13:09:00.000Z

Luke's new hand is tended to by medical droid 2-1B on the Medical Frigate for the closing scenes of THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK. What's interesting about this image is that it's from the original version of the sequence, filmed at ELSTREE from July 12th 1979, which didn't make it into the final film. Note the facial bruising Luke has (not seen in the finished film) and the prosthetic interior mechanisms that would have been located within his palm. At the recent US STAR WARS Where Science Meets Imagination exhibition in California, AFICIONADO contributor Ian Trussler took these images of the hand/palm to have been partially used for the sequence.

Above two pics by Ian Trussler.

The original filming rehearsals of the finale scene in July 1979 at ELSTREE.

During that original July filming, Anthony Daniels was keenly aware that the final scene, in whatever scripted/storyboarded form it was in, might not prove satisfying to audiences when cut together, and vocally expressed his opinion that the sequence would need to be re-shot. His instincts would prove right, as new storyboards were drafted by ILM's Nilo Rodis-Jamero on 21st November 1979 (and listed as "added" shots) for filming of the interior scene, presumably done later that month (in the US (ILM) or at ELSTREE?) or into December 1979 with Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Anthony Daniels, Kenny Baker and the robot controlled Artoo. AFICIONADO assumes the shoot was actually done in December, near Xmas (that would account for the image below of Fisher with the Xmas party decorations around 2-1B!). In the re-shoot used in the completed movie, Luke has a new hairstyle and no facial bruising, with insert scenes of a new hand, instigated at the request of Irvin Kershner (as noted in J.W. Rinzler's MAKING OF EMPIRE book), presumably shot later or around the same time with an unknown hand double.

In the re-shoot, Luke no longer has any bruising and his haircut is different. Threepio watches 2-1B presumably make the final seal on Luke's new hand-a scene not in the completed movie. The palm scene was eventually abandoned with a new insert.

The less gruesome new insert scene for Luke's hand.

Carrie Fisher on the Medical Frigate set with 2-1B, presumably for the re-shoot during either November or December 1979 (near Xmas?-note the decorations around the droid).

Luke and Leia as they appear in the re-shoot seen in the final scene of the movie.

A further couple of exterior model effects shots, to clarify who was where on the Medical Frigate and the about to depart Millennium Falcon, were also added to the film at break-neck speed by ILM in March 1980.

For more information on the making of EPISODE V, why not get hold of our exhaustive, info-packed behind the scenes PDF back issues on THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK here: STAR WARS AFICIONADO "EMPIRE" BEHIND THE SCENES COMPANION and here: STAR WARS AFICIONADO DOUBLE ISSUE 11/12-THE MAKING OF "THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK"

CLASSIC INDY: THE NAMES JONES...INDIANA JONES

2012-01-22T10:28:00.001Z

Back in action after his back injury surgery, Harrison Ford returns to ELSTREE in London to don a distinctive white tuxedo and film the exciting and memorable opening scenes at the Club Obi-Wan for INDY II (later titled INDIANA JONES AND THE TEMPLE OF DOOM), the then long-awaited sequel, in this case prequel, to RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK.

CLASSIC BLOG: THE MUSIC OF "STAR WARS" (WELL, SORT OF...)

2012-01-22T10:28:00.000Z

STAR WARS music by John Williams: seventies-style!

Long before John Williams all defining musical score for STAR WARS-truly one of the greatest compositions of all time- I had always been interested in orchestral score music-as a very small child I would often listen to compilation albums to classic films and television series that, at that time, I had never seen, but which I instantly knew the theme tunes to once I eventually saw them. As a child, when babysat by my Nan, I would listen to the GREAT WAR FILM THEMES and leap off the sofa pretending to be a parachutist to the likes of the DAM BUSTERS and WHERE EAGLES DARE (don’t get me started on that film-it’s just fantastic!!). Most of these seventies compilation themes were produced by the British MUSIC FOR PLEASURE range, and were not the actual brought in scores but new realisations, normally from the well respected musician/composer Geoff Love and his orchestra-who, at that time, were well known for their work in the television industry, providing music for live entertainment shows on Sunday nights. By 1978, we had had the war films, the western themes, the TV themes albums, but with the arrival of STAR WARS, and the film heralding a brilliant new zenith for orchestral scores, as well as a return to that type of adventure music with a plethora or rival movies, all of the music companies, including MFP, were keen to get a piece of the action profits-wise in securing rights for their own versions of the theme tune on their science fiction film/TV compilation albums. Geoff Love and his MFP tram responded with STAR WARS AND OTHER SPACE THEMES-one of the first albums I listened to after being blown away by the original two disc Williams album score. As a fan, still to this day, of other sci-fi series and films, those represented on the compiled album were ones that I’d always wanted to have and listen to again and again, and I loved listening to this compiled themes LP the most-how it never scratched or warped from the playing I don’t know. Some of the arrangements range from the extremely good-THINGS TO COME, the mighty THUNDERBIRDS suite, and 2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY especially (and the MARS theme from the PLANETS SUITE, though not necessarily from a film, it has been used in TV series like SPACE 1999)-to the kooky (like BARBARELLA-but that was just a plain kooky film anyway (and, again, don’t get me started on Jane Fonda in that film-what a babe!!), to the downright awful (the STAR TREK arrangement is one of the worst I’ve ever heard –it doesn’t even sound like Alexander Courage’s accomplished score!!). And, being the seventies, some of the TV series cover versions have a cool disco vibe to them, like the re-interpreted UFO (which is brilliant, and my favourite on the album, alongside SPACE: 1999- put on those flares and hit that disco beat, man!!). But, as for the STAR WARS theme, well… it’s not Williams but I have to say I really like Love’s interpretation of it-there’s an interesting echoy sound to it and the orchestra playing it is quite loud and bombastic-living up to the war drums into infinity description of George Lucas’s original script intent for the title crawl. They may not be The London Symphony Orchestra but Love’s team is certainly enjoying the challenge of it and giving it a bloody good go! There must also be a special mention to the arrangement of the Princess Leia Theme on the album-again that composition always has been a very special one in my affections-and this version almost matches the greatness of the Williams original.

A few years back, my dad found an old tape version of the album and I’ve played it regularly ever since-perhaps unconsciously returning to my youth, but then again, just enjoying it-and it’s a good and evocative background album to write to. It may not be to everyone’s taste, and it is a product of its time completely (and check out that album cover-due to likeness/image copyright restrictions, almost every film and TV show represented on it is only vaguely like what we’re used to-check out Luke and Leia-hilarious!! And Barbarella?-she looks like she’s had her finger in an electrical socket!), but, if you want to travel back to those innocent days of the MUSIC FOR PLEASURE era, then samples of the album can be found at places like AMAZON and PLAY.COM (you can even download the whole album, which, interestingly, has classic tracks that weren’t on the original LP we bought in 1978, presumably added on from extra re-releases over the years, like BLAKE'S SEVEN, THE TIME MACHINE, CLOSE ENCOUNTERS, LOGAN’S RUN and THE OMEGA MAN!!).

They say nostalgia is back in fashion, but I don't think it ever really went away...

CLASSIC IMAGE: PADME'S COSTUMED UNIVERSE...

2012-01-21T11:09:00.000Z

Natalie Portman poses for a publicity photo as Senator Padme Amidala in one of Trisha Biggar's beautifully realised creations for EPISODE III: REVENGE OF THE SITH, and an outfit the character would wear again in the recent CLONE WARS Season Four episode A Friend in Need.

So pleased was Lucas by the Scottish Costume Designer's immense and detailed work on the Prequel Trilogy that he put out several trade advertisements in recognition of her sterling and memorable efforts, in an attempt to finally get her noticed by the American ACADEMY AWARD members. Sadly, as per usual, the guild members/voters overall snobby attitude to the STAR WARS sequels (Classic and Prequel) prevailed and EPISODE III, despite one make-up nomination, was ultimately not recognised for any of its technical merits.

One of Lucas's OSCAR "For Your Consideration" trade ads from 2005/2006.

BEHIND THE SCENES IMAGE: A WOOKIEE AWAITS HIS CUE!

2012-01-20T16:44:00.000Z

Peter Mayhew, as a neck chained Chewbacca, and Carrie Fisher, inside the bulky Bounty Hunter costume once belonging to the later to be known character of Boushh, get ready to film a scene on the steps of the hot and smoky set of Jabba's Throne Room at ELSTREE STUDIOS in January/February 1982, for the then recent commencement of filming of REVENGE OF THE JEDI.

CLASSIC BLOG: STAR WARS MEETS SAUL BASS!

2012-01-19T16:48:00.001Z

I've always loved good title sequences in movies, from Maurice Binder's distinctive JAMES BOND intros of the sixties to the eighties, to the lovely Richard Fleischer PINK PANTHER starts. One of the all-time great modern film titles designers, however, had to be the late, Saul Bass-whose impressive work on title sequences and poster design for films like ANATOMY OF A MURDER and CASINO even now continue to inspire others with his legendary and inspirational style. One of these great new wave of Bass inspirationists has decided to interpret what STAR WARS would look like if it's titles were given a retro makeover back to the sixties. The results are both very impressive and great fun.

Check it out: Star Wars vs. Saul Bass - YouTube

AOTC AT TEN: SITH MASTERMIND

2012-01-19T11:24:00.001Z

Behind the scenes for EPISODE II, Ian McDiarmid gets ready to once more bring deliciously evil life to Supreme Chancellor Palpatine, for what will be a pivotal dialogue scene on Coruscant between himself and Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen)- either added late into the film or script extended during one of it's re-shoot periods- whom he proudly assures will become one of the greatest of all the Jedi.

Beyond the film, readers can now finally discover more about the fascinating character, and secret history, of Palpatine /Darth Sidious, and his relationship to his former Sith Lord master Darth Plagueis, with the newly released DARTH PLAGUEIS novel, from the reliable author James Luceno, which AFICIONADO will be posting its review of in the not too distant future...

Book trailer: STAR WARS: DARTH PLAGUEIS (Book Trailer) - YouTube

CLASSIC IMAGE: FIGHTING FURIES!

2012-01-18T11:35:00.000Z

Light and Dark clash lightsaber swords, as Obi-Wan and Darth Maul go at it within the dangerous environs of the Theed City power complex. An adrenaline fuelled, crowd pleasing action sequence-one of the best seen in the entire STAR WARS SAGA- for EPISODE ONE, returning to the big screen in 3-D next month, choreographed by iconic stunt coordinator and all-round nice bloke Nick Gillard.

Nick Gillard watches over the next phase of Lightsaber battle choreography between Ewan McGregor and Ray Park at LEAVESDEN in 1997.

If you're in the US, don't forget that Nick is doing his VIP Lightsaber Master Class at the New Orleans Comic Con at the end of the month, and it looks like its going to be great fun for fans young and old. For more info head over to this link: Jedi Lightsaber Master Class VIP @ New Orleans Comic Con 2012 : Wizard World Comic Cons : NEW ORLEANS COMIC CON JANUARY 28-29, 2012 SAT-SUN New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center : New Orleans Comic Con 2012 Wizard World Convention JANUARY 28-29, 2012 SAT-SUN

BEHIND THE SCENES: MASTERS OF MUSIC!

2012-01-17T11:54:00.000Z

January 1980: In London, film composer par excellence John Williams is re-united with the superior London Symphony Orchestra as they record over two hours of iconic music and themes for STAR WARS EPISODE V: THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK. In this image they enhance the stirring sequence where our Rebel heroes escape Bespin and Imperial Stormtrooper fire.

With thanks to Chris Baker for the image.

"ATTACK OF THE CLONES" AT TEN!

2012-01-16T12:05:00.000Z

The overall STAR WARS Saga in 2012 has a lot to celebrate: not only the original first film hitting thirty-five, and the current CLONE WARS series now in its fifth year (with Dave Filoni fully confirming the next season online several days back via his FACEBOOK page), but also with the incoming Tenth Anniversary of Prequel adventure EPISODE II: ATTACK OF THE CLONES, which makes a welcome return to cinemas screens in 3-D later in the year.

We'll be concurrently celebrating all three landmarks this year across the AFICIONADO sites, and here's out first tribute to ATTACK, with Matt Busch's superb artwork for the film via the 2002 CELEBRATION II convention magazine cover. I'm sure you'll agree the piece captures all the films memorable ingredients and characters well.

To see more of Matt's stylish and inventive work, and purchase some great exclusive items, head over to the link here: The Rock Star of Illustration - Real Detroit Weekly

And check out Ian Trussler's interview with Matt for AFICIONADO here: MATT BUSCH INTERVIEW

BEHIND THE SCENES: THE GOLDEN MAN!

2012-01-15T11:25:00.000Z

Anthony Daniels returns to inhabit the golden suit of See-Threepio, once more with Artoo Detoo, as host of the DISCOVERY CHANNEL's SCIENCE OF STAR WARS documentaries. The three part special series is being repeated in the UK on the DISCOVERY SCIENCE CHANNEL from this week 18th - 20th January at 9pm.

CLASSIC IMAGE: KASHYYYK HOLIDAY!

2012-01-15T11:00:00.000Z

The gang's all here for Life Day!

It can only be THE STAR WARS HOLIDAY SPECIAL.

Nuff Said!

WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF "THX 1138"

2012-01-14T11:32:00.000Z

Humanity enslaved. Robert Duvall is THX 1138. Image: WARNER BROTHERS/LUCASFILM.

In the future nightmare world belonging to THX-1138, the no longer drug controlled citizen is put into isolation within a stark white prison area and beaten by his underground civilisation's robotic policemen. George Lucas's first film, made under the watchful guardian angel producer-ship wings of Francis Ford Coppola for AMERICAN ZOETROPE for WARNER BROTHERS, is a true and notable example of an artistic science fiction film endeavour, with an intelligent and thoughtful script and direction that is very adult and sophisticated, though deep beneath it there are also many elements story and behind the scenes wise that will be reinvigorated and adapted for the more crowd pleasing space fantasy environs of the STAR WARS SAGA, most notably in the morality and importance of man versus technology.

The classic and modern posters for the original film and its special edition re-release.

Original Trailer: THX 1138 trailer - YouTube

A dedicated site for the film: THX-1138.ORG

CLASSIC BLOG: "REMEMBERING THE SEVENTIES SOUND DESIGN OF THE ORIGINAL "STAR WARS"

2012-01-14T11:09:00.001Z

To make space for future features and photos, I'm transferring the majority of the AFICIONADO blogs area of 2008 to 2010 from the main site onto this blog. It also feels more appropriate that a blog should be on a blog site!

Here's one of our first, and keep checking back for more on and off, mixed in with our regular new material (some past blogs will also be further updated with info and photos!):

Just a quickie to let people know of a great site I discovered via the ORIGINALTRILOGY.COM site. If, like me, you've ever been fascinated by the various sound mix differences of STAR WARS (or A NEW HOPE), you may want to check out Russ Dawson's excellent site charting the various differences between the original 1977 cinema Mono and Dolby release tracks done for the film when it was originally released. The site is a labour of love, nicely designed and well worth a look-you may be surprised by some of the stuff on there!!

Head over to:http://homepage.ntlworld.com/russdawson/mono/mono1.htm

ENJOY!!

RETURNING TO RETURN OF THE JEDI!

2012-01-13T11:40:00.000Z

Here's a great new blog dedicated to the final film of the Classic Trilogy, RETURN OF THE JEDI: Returning to Return of the Jedi. Only a month or so into its creation, it's showing lots of exciting potential, and comes from a fellow Brit, Mark Cookson. I highly recommend it.

STAR WARS AFICIONADO wishes RETURNING TO RETURN OF THE JEDI the best of success for the future.

And don't forget, AFICIONADO's own exhaustive 2008 MAKING OF JEDI special-one of our biggest issues ever- is still available on PDF here: STAR WARS AFICIONADO ISSUE 14 - THE MAKING OF "RETURN OF THE JEDI"

BACK IN THE AIR WITH "RED TAILS"

2012-01-13T11:16:00.000Z

Heroes of the skies: the cast of RED TAILS. Images: LUCASFILM/FOX

The George Lucas produced, Anthony Hemingway directed epic World War II movie about the true story of the brave Tuskegee airmen- RED TAILS- starring Terrence Howard and Cuba Gooding Jr., and featuring some incredible effects work from ILM, finally arrives in American cinemas this month, having received its star-studded New York premiere at the Ziegfeld theatre on January 10th. Annoyingly, there is no UK release date yet for the film-my guess it'll be March time, probably after the 3-D release of THE PHANTOM MENACE in February...

The most recent trailers for the film: Red Tails Official Trailer #3 - YouTube
Red Tails Trailer HD - YouTube

Here are some web galleries and articles on the film and the premiere event:

'Red Tails' sequels ready for takeoff | Welcome to S2Smagazine.com

Red Tails: George Lucas Celebrates with Terrence Howard, Ne-Yo, Michael B. Jordan and Cuba Gooding Jr. (Photo Slideshow) - Speakeasy - WSJ

Oh No They Didn't! - "Red Tails" Movie Premier

Red Tails New York Premiere | World Of Wonder

Beyond STAR WARS, lets hope we also get to see a lot more LUCASFILM original productions like this in the foreseeable future, both as potential franchises like Indiana Jones and one-off innovative comedy and drama.

BEHIND THE SCENES: THE INTERACTIVE DARK LORD!

2012-01-12T10:27:00.000Z

For all you Vader fans out there, here's a few behind the scenes shots of the London filming of Dave Prowse's iconic and much deserved return to the iron-lung suit for the 1996 STAR WARS interactive video/board game for HASBRO EUROPE, of which a portion of the Death Star II set (the storyline linked to RETURN OF THE JEDI) was resurrected and specially lit for Vader (once more voiced by James Earl Jones) and his troops to challenge his off-screen opponents, photographed by the classic first film's original Director of Photography: Gilbert Taylor. Both stars and cameramen did excellent work on a game which I still enjoy playing now and then...

With thanks to Chris Baker for selected images.

STAR WARS AT 35: THAT PONCHO...

2012-01-11T11:11:00.002Z

In the then coldish March/April 1976 climes of the Star Wars Canyon in Tunisia, West Africa, actor Mark Hamill wears a brown lined poncho over his distinctive costume whilst in preparations to film a scene alongside Anthony Daniels as See-Threepio and Kenny Baker inside the squat Artoo Detoo shell. Hamill wears the distinctive apparel several other times in posed stills taken during the location filming, though he doesn't wear it in the actual filmed scenes of the completed movie. It's interesting to note that the poncho does not officially appear in the first STAR WARS movie until later in the film, where it looks like Luke has purchased it within the Mos Eisley spaceport (perhaps as part of an attempt to not stand out in the crowds-from a further missing scene or line of dialogue?) whilst selling the Landspeeder to Wioslea the speeder dealer. From then on, he wears it whilst heading to Docking Bay 94 and on his arrival at Yavin with Princess Leia. After that, it's never seen again in the film series (and I'm not even sure if it exists within the hallowed halls of the Lucasfilm Archives).

Hamill wearing the poncho for a mid-1977 posed photo shoot taken by famous cameraman Bob Seidemann.

Whether or not the Poncho was always originally planned as a costume design for Luke is not known for sure. I personally reckon it was an item that was acquired whilst the location filming was happening in Tunisia or about to happen (possibly from the London-based Bermans and Nathans, the film's primary costumer?), either by Hamill himself (if he originally purchased it, he may, perhaps, have kept it after filming?) or by costume designer John Mollo and then later found its way into being part of the film when the shoot transferred back to London. If anyone could provide any further information or confirmation on this bit of STAR WARS costume history, please get in touch...

CLASSIC IMAGE: MOORE THAN MEETS THE EYES...

2012-01-09T15:21:00.001Z

The distinctive alien-ness of the shadowy and thought manipulative Sly Moore (played with striking and haunting stillness by Australian actress Sandy Finlay) brings subtle menace to the political aides who gather protectively around Supreme Chancellor Palpatine, operating from his power base within the decaying Galactic Republic of EPISODEs II and III.

CLASSIC INDY: "WHAT IS THIS?"

2012-01-08T10:33:00.000Z

"This is not the Mitchell-Hedges skull..."

Legendary archeologist Indiana Jones ponders the mystery of the immense, metal-attracting crystal skull head found within the creepy underground Conquistador grave of Peru, in this scene from the under-rated INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL.

No news on INDY 5 yet (if it happens), but check out this nice L.A. TIMES webs feature on the enduring friendship/working relationship between Steven Spielberg and John Williams: John Williams and Steven Spielberg mark 40 years of collaboration - latimes.com

CLASSIC IMAGE: BRUISED AND BEATEN

2012-01-07T12:26:00.002Z

On Geonosis, our brave Jedi Knight heroes Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker learn a painful lesson in why its not wise to lightsaber duel against Count Dooku as individuals, during the closing scenes of EPISODE II: ATTACK OF THE CLONES.

BACK TO THE "LOST" EMPIRE DOCUMENTARY!

2012-01-05T17:01:00.000Z

A relaxed Carrie Fisher is interviewed in the STAR WARS production office at ELSTREE during 1979 filming of TESB. I can't confirm for sure but this could be French documentarian Michel Parbot seated opposite her.

Today, via a heads up from the JEDINEWS and MINTINBOX sites, more information and screengrabs have become available on the rarely seen French cameraman/director Michel Parbot's 1979/80 documentary charting the making of THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK, of which certain portions of his footage would go on to appear in other ESB related programmes of the time, like the BBC's STAR WARS: MUSIC BY JOHN WILLIAMS (aired the weekend leading up to the films London theatrical release) and the later Mark Hamill starring SPFX: THE MAKING OF THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK. Though not commercially released on VHS or DVD, and only shown a couple of times on overseas TV originally, the programme does exist in several private STAR WARS collectors hands, but in varying picture and sound quality. A few years back, Steve Sansweet confirmed that LUCASFILM also have a copy of the complete Parbot documentary on tape but not in great condition (and they do have portions of Parbot's raw footage, if not all of it, in good quality, as seen in various clips within the 2004 EMPIRE OF DREAMS DVD documentary). Gary Kurtz also has a copy in his collection, as well as the dedicated fan who heads the now relatively quiet STAR WARS ARCHIVES (of which portions of it have been tantalisingly put on his website from time to time as a taster of the shows wealth of behind the scenes material: The Star Wars Archives (the source who gave him a copy, however, did not ultimately want the full programme uploaded for viewing)). Several well-known fans would also contact the hard to find film-maker directly over the years to get their own copies, but either Parbot or his estate/management apparently asked for a small fortune every time!

With the excellent info and grabs put up on the MINTINBOX site (at this link: MintInBox.net - "The Making of The Empire Strikes Back" par Michel Parbot), I think this is the best we're going to get as a visual representation- for the time being- until it one day gets a release-another disappointing example of a major lost opportunity by LUCASFILM that could, and should, have made last years Blu-rays!

"STAR WARS" AT 35: DEPARTURE TO DESTINY...

2012-01-03T11:50:00.000Z

Thirty five years ago in 1977, the young and brave Rebel Alliance leader Princess Leia Organa (played by Carrie Fisher) undertook a bold and dangerous mission to become custodian of stolen plans for a top secret Empire project: the Death Star. Upon successfully achieving the first stage of her mission and beginning its second aspect (to retrieve the pariah Jedi Knight, Obi-Wan Kenobi, from hiding, so as to aid the Rebel cause against evil), she would unfortunately be tracked to the isolated desert world of Tatooine by her enemies: the sinister agents and Imperial Stormtroopers led by the evil Lord Darth Vader. The story of STAR WARS, created by George Lucas, had spectacularly begun and a legend was soon born, capturing the hearts, minds and imaginations of audiences young and old. Artist Chris Trevas's beautifully rendered image for STAR WARS GALAXIES showing Leia saying goodbye (sadly for the last time) to both her adopted father Bail Organa (as had been played in the Prequels by Jimmy Smits) and her adopted homeworld of Alderaan, watched by Captain Antilles, is a wonderful and touching interpretation of important events leading into that classic first film.

This year, as the saga hits a new respected landmark, keep a regular eye out on the AFICIONADO blog as we celebrate the classic original STAR WARS in all its majestic and inspiring glory...

GOODBYE, BOB ANDERSON...

2012-01-02T10:27:00.002Z

Master of swordplay: the late Bob Anderson prepares the next part of Darth Vader's classic duel with Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) in THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK.

The sad news has come in that legendary fencing master/ coordinator Bob Anderson, who doubled Dave Prowse for the majority of the super lightsaber duel conflicts in THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK and RETURN OF THE JEDI as Darth Vader, working alongside Stunt coordinator Peter Diamond (of whom he had a long friendship) and actor Mark Hamill, has sadly passed away. He was 89.

Though his voice was later dubbed, Anderson was at Norway to play the Rebel Commander who announces the incoming Walkers in THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK.

A former British Olympic Fencing champion, Anderson would become a much admired and highly sought after professional legend in the film industry, where he would be responsible for choreographing some of the most exhilarating blade and fencing work seen in classic movies and blockbusters like the entire LORD OF THE RINGS Trilogy, THE PRINCESS BRIDE, the Antonio Banderas incarnation of ZORRO and the James Bond film DIE ANOTHER DAY.

As Darth Vader on the Carbon Freezing Chamber set for EMPIRE in 1979. Image: STARWARS.COM

With thanks to Chris Baker for this YOUTUBE link footage on Mister Anderson's career:
Bob Anderson - Fencing Master Stunt Performer & Fight Director - YouTube
Bob Anderson: Sword fights- part 1 - YouTube
Bob Anderson: Sword fights- part 2 - YouTube
Reclaiming the Blade (2009) Movie Trailer - YouTube

Bob Anderson will be much missed by everyone who knew him and AFICIONADO, as well as millions of STAR WARS fans around the world, send their condolences to his family.

HAPPY NEW SITH!

2012-01-01T10:44:00.000Z

It's time for "Brothers" to get "Revenge" in the Season Four finale of THE CLONE WARS in March/April 2012, as Zabrakian's Darth Maul and Savage Opress share a little quality time, and presumably killing Jedi, in the closing two parter. Let's hope that Maul's resurrection is explained in a believable and acceptable way for long-term fans, and that there's some badass lightsaber action along the way, too!

Savage and Obi-Wan: the re-match!

'THE CLONE WARS" - THE AFICIONADO TIMELINE GUIDE

2011-12-31T11:30:00.000Z

THE CLONE WARS epic story and characters so far...

For all THE CLONE WARS fans out there old and young waiting for the second half of Season Four to begin States-side (from January 6th on CARTOON NETWORK), I thought it might be nice to do an up to date timeline list of the series episodes so far, especially as Seasons One to Three have many adventures set at varying stages of the galactic conflict.

Here's the AFICIONADO's take on the series viewing order:

CAT AND MOUSE (the start of the Christophsis plot)

THE HIDDEN ENEMY (introduction of Asajj Ventress to the animated series)

THE CLONE WAR THEATRICAL MOVIE/PILOT (end of Christophsis arc and introduction of Jedi Padawan Ahsoka Tano)

CLONE CADETS (first extra battalions join the fight)

SUPPLY LINES (invasion of Ryloth begins, the King of Toydaria asks to meet the Jedi)

RISING MALEVOLENCE

SHADOW OF MALEVOLENCE

DESTROY MALEVOLENCE

AMBUSH (Yoda meets with Toydarian King Katuunko and a new alliance is forged)

ROOKIES (attempted Separatist invasion of Kamino enters its early stages)

ARC TROOPERS

DOWNFALL OF A DROID

DUEL OF THE DROIDS

BOMBAD JEDI

CLOAK OF DARKNESS

LAIR OF GRIEVOUS

DOOKU CAPTURED (introduction of pirate Hondo Ohnaka)

THE GUNGAN GENERAL

JEDI CRASH

DEFENDERS OF PEACE

TRESPASS

BLUE SHADOW VIRUS

THE MYSTERY OF A THOUSAND MOONS

BOUNTY HUNTERS (Felucia not yet under Separatist attack. Hondo returns and has already met Anakin and Obi-Wan)

STORM OVER RYLOTH

THE INNOCENTS OF RYLOTH

LIBERTY ON RYLOTH (Ryloth finally re-taken by the Republic)

DEATH TRAP

R2 COME HOME

LETHAL TRACKDOWN (Boba Fett captured but will obviously escape in an unseen plotline, and returns for either Season Four or Five?)

ASSASSIN (Aurra Sing back from the dead, then captured but obviously busts out of jail in an unseen story to join forces with Cad Bane, prior to the events of the episode HOSTAGE CRISIS)

EVIL PLANS

HOSTAGE CRISIS

HUNT FOR ZIRO

THE HOLOCRON HEIST (Felucia under invasion-first stage of Jedi counter-attack fails)

CARGO OF DOOM

CHILDREN OF THE FORCE

SENATE SPY

LANDING AT POINT RAIN (the Republic battle to re-take Geonosis begins)

WEAPONS FACTORY

LEGACY OF TERROR

BRAIN INVADERS (Geonosis story arc ends)

GRIEVOUS INTRIGUE

THE DESERTER

LIGHTSABER LOST

THE MANDALORE PLOT

VOYAGE OF TEMPTATION

DUCHESS OF MANDALORE

HEROES ON BOTH SIDES

PURSUIT OF PEACE

SENATE MURDERS

THE ZILLO BEAST

THE ZILLO BEAST STRIKES BACK

SPHERE OF INFLUENCE

CORRUPTION

THE ACADEMY

From the Season Three NIGHTSISTERS episode mid-point onwards, the series continues in chronological order leading up to the events of the movie EPISODE III: REVENGE OF THE SITH...

The first three seasons of THE CLONE WARS are now available in complete series format (as seen in the above image) or individual season box sets on both DVD and Blu-ray formats from WARNER BROTHERS.

A BOONTA EVE CHRISTMAS MESSAGE!

2011-12-24T11:26:00.000Z

A Podracer Christmas from LUCASFILM/Troy Alders.

STAR WARS AFICIONADO wishes its worldwide readership a HAPPY CHRISTMAS and a PROSPEROUS 2012!

AFICIONADO REVIEW: "COWBOYS & ALIENS" EXTENDED EDITION ON BLU-RAY

2011-12-24T11:25:00.000Z

Defending the Earth, Cowboy style. COWBOYS & ALIENS, now on Blu-ray and DVD. Images: PARAMOUNT.

Both lassoing and blasting its way past the $100 million dollar worldwide box office, the western/sci-fi blend of COWBOYS & ALIENS makes its exciting debut on Blu-ray and DVD in the UK from PARAMOUNT DVD on December 26th-the perfect Boxing Day/Christmas aftermath family action/adventure movie to settle down with, to be accompanied, of course, by tons of mouth immersive popcorn. Put your mindset purely into cinematic blockbuster entertainment mode and you'll have a dependably great time, headed by two of the movie industries most popular stars of the adrenalin kind: Han Solo/Indiana Jones himself, Harrison Ford, and continuing James Bond star Daniel Craig, who make a fine pairing of character opposites ultimately going way beyond their lives in the American West in helping the town of Absolution survive an onslaught attack of aliens from another universe, in this criminally under-rated movie from Summer 2011 and which I strongly recommend purchasing in its Triple Play edition.

Jake Lonergan (Daniel Craig) takes on the aliens in this cool poster art.

Check out STAR WARS AFICIONADO's original theatrical review here:STAR WARS AFICIONADO MAGAZINE: AFICIONADO REVIEW: "COWBOYS & ALIENS". The new extended cut of the film (available only on Blu-ray, whilst the original version is on the DVD) adds nearly twenty minutes of material to the film and improves it greatly, giving the story much more subtlety and room to breathe. Most welcome is the fact that we also get to see a bit more of the film's fine supporting actors, like Clancy Brown, Adam Beach and Sam Rockwell, whilst action and gore buffs will enjoy the extended, and more violent, action scenes of man versus alien.

Lonergan and Dolarhyde prepare to confront the alien menace.

Harrison Ford is as good as ever as the crusty hero Woodrow Dolarhyde.

Olivia Wilde continues her impressive film career playing the mysterious Ella.

Originally made on film-a deliberate choice by Favreau-as all classic westerns are made in the format-and mercifully not released in 3-D (although several tests scenes were shot in the format), COWBOYS looks absolutely fantastic in its digital Blu-ray transfer, with sharp detail that brings the dedicated production/costume design and gorgeous cinematography to life, alongside crisp and terrific sound design that really comes out to hit you on your sofas. This is the best you'll ever see the film: the bigger the television you have the better the experience. There's also some solid, if hardly comprehensive extras, including a nice behind the scenes look at the film (split into five different sections) involving all of the films main stars and behind the scenes talent-all of whom clearly enjoyed making the film, interviews by Favreau with the cast and crew (including producers Ron Howard, Steven Spielberg and Brian Grazer) conducted after the movies completion, and an intriguing audio commentary from the IRON MAN director who lives and breathes movie knowledge across all genres, especially sci-fi and westerns, and loves to use the advanced film-making tools and special effects at his disposal to aid rather than hinder character on the ambitious hybrid genre movie. The only shame is that the film's skillful trailer campaign and the 2011 cast/crew footage from COMIC CON (which famously had Harrison Ford escorted onto the stage in handcuffs by the police) don't make inclusion.

Director Jon Favreau with the COWBOYS & ALIENS cast at COMIC CON.

Ford, Wilde and Craig pose for publicity at COMIC CON.

AFICIONADO OVERALL RATINGS FOR TRIPLE PLAY EDITION:

Extended Movie 8.5 out of 10

Special Features: 7 out of 10

Check out our previous comprehensive COWBOYS & ALIENS coverage here: STAR WARS AFICIONADO MAGAZINE: COWBOYS AND ALIENS

CLASSIC IMAGE: SECRET SKYWALKER!

2011-12-23T12:25:00.000Z

Filmed under top secret conditions at ELSTREE STUDIOS, and referred to on certain 1982 behind the scenes call sheets as "The Man", respected British actor Sebastian Shaw dons a Darth Vader costume for his filmed scenes playing the dying Anakin Skywalker opposite Mark Hamill. Within that brief shooting period, Sebastian Shaw would also be filmed wearing Jedi robes and later superimposed onto a separately shot sequence with Sir Alec Guinness as Obi-Wan and the Yoda puppet for RETURN OF THE JEDI's final celebratory scenes.

CLASSIC IMAGE: "IT'S WORSE!"

2011-12-22T11:39:00.000Z

Within the grotty and foul smelling domain of the Death Star Trash Compactor, Han, Leia and a previously submerged Luke survey the watery floor looking for the Dia-Noga creature, whilst Chewbacca continues his attempts to pierce the locked door, in this slightly different out-take image from the original STAR WARS.

CLASSIC ART: BEFORE THE FALL...

2011-12-21T13:20:00.000Z

The powerful, battle scarred Jedi- also know throughout the Galactic Republic as "the hero without fear"- Anakin Skywalker is embraced by his devoted, equally brave wife Padme Amidala in this lovely piece of art from Alexandre Tuis, linked to EPISODE III: REVENGE OF THE SITH.

CLASSIC IMAGE: "EMPIRE" BUILDING....

2011-12-20T12:01:00.000Z

A happy Dave Prowse, a bleary Harrison Ford and a playful Carrie Fisher promote THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK to the world press during Summer 1980. I love the Ralph McQuarrie painting backdrop behind them. If anyone knows exactly where and when this conference took place, please get in touch.

CLASSIC IMAGE: THE OTHER LUKE!

2011-12-19T17:37:00.000Z

Art mirrors (screen) life in this great image from the FAMILY GUY RETURN OF THE JEDI celebration/parody IT'S A TRAP!, where Luke (Chris Griffin) finally gets to show his kick-ass Jedi skills and rescue his friends. I love the blooded limb on the floor-where would STAR WARS be without one in each film!

STAR WARS FAMILY GUY episodes will be airing over Xmas on FX HD in the UK.

BEHIND THE SCENES IMAGE: IN STORAGE!

2011-12-19T13:04:00.000Z

A group of classic creature heads from RETURN OF THE JEDI lay ready to be used for upcoming studio filming at both ELSTREE and for location work in Yuma, Arizona between Jan and April 1982.

DELETED SCENES WE WANT ON BLU-RAY: MOTEE THE HANDMAIDEN...

2011-12-18T11:54:00.000Z

Seen but briefly in the finished film, Australian actress Kristy Wright would play one of Senator Padme Amidala's loyal and dutiful handmaidens (and presumably occasional decoy), Motee, during the critical events of EPISODE III. One of her main deleted scenes would occur within Padme's apartment veranda: just before Anakin arrives to sit down with her to discuss the current Republic turmoils, both Motee (alongside other handmaiden Elle) and Captain Typho leave their leader in peace, whilst Threepio goes off to turn on the security droids (pictured below). This deleted scene section has yet to appear on any DVD or Blu-ray release, which is a shame...

CLASSIC IMAGE: CARBON CUSTODIAN!

2011-12-17T13:46:00.000Z

The STAR WARS equivalent of the western gunfighter, aka the man with no name: deadly bounty hunter Boba Fett, cooly guards the carbon frozen form of Han Solo as it makes its way through the Bespin city corridors en route to his Slave One vessel.

A classic scene from THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK.

BEHIND THE SCENES IMAGE: CAN YOU READ MY MIND?

2011-12-16T13:02:00.000Z

Rehearsing the Rebel heroes escape on the Millennium Falcon, Harrison Ford as Han Solo and writer/director George Lucas exchange intriguing thought processes on the enormous Death Star hangar bay set of the original STAR WARS, filmed during the long hot summer of 1976 at London's ELSTREE STUDIOS.

With thanks to Chris Baker for the image.

CLASSIC IMAGE: GAMORREAN GUARD DUTY!

2011-12-15T14:52:00.000Z

On the staircase leading down to the underground Rancor chamber from the hell-hole that is Jabba the Hutt's Throne Room, a lone Gamorrean Guard stands obstructively firm in this great image from EPISODE VI: RETURN OF THE JEDI.

CLASSIC ART: DISCO "WARS"!

2011-12-14T12:42:00.000Z

Here's some fun 1978 front and back cover record sleeve art (illustrator unknown), based around the classic Hildebrandt Brothers US poster for another musical interpretation of John Williams classic score for the original STAR WARS. This one - titled the STAR WARS COLLECTORS DISK- created and produced by Japanese talent Osamu Shoji, is an intriguing electronic mix for the Warner-Pioneer label.

Listen to some of the albums lively disco funk tracks here: Osamu Shoji - Star wars | Mista Tibbz

CLASSIC RAIDERS: CEREMONY OF DEATH!

2011-12-14T12:41:00.000Z

Harrison Ford and Karen Allen-their characters of Indy and Marion now captured by the Nazis, and finding themselves on an unknown island- prepare to film the classic finale to RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK at London's ELSTREE STUDIOS, in this fun panoramic shot from 1980, where the Ark of the Covenant is finally opened and a mysterious and deadly force is unleashed!

Beyond RAIDERS, as for any chances of seeing a new INDY movie, there's still no concrete news behind the scenes, though Spielberg recently talked about the controversies that have dogged THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL. Head over to the link here: Spielberg blames Lucas for Indy 4's story sucking so hard | Blastr

BEHIND THE SCENES IMAGE: PURPLE IS THE NEW BLUE!

2011-12-13T12:38:00.000Z

They've fought against blue screen, they've fought against green screen. Now, actors Hayden Christensen and Ewan McGregor continue filming their lengthy and ambitious, climactic and history-making lightsaber duel as Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi against the willful colour purple at FOX STUDIOS Australia, in this charged fighting image taken behind the scenes for EPISODE III: REVENGE OF THE SITH in 2005.

The co-ordinator of the Prequels super lightsaber duels- the one and only Nick Gillard- is continuing his lightsaber master classes for fans in the US next February, at the New Orleans Comic Con. Check here for more details: Sith Sabre Class VIP Experience @ New Orleans Comic Con 2012 : Wizard World Comic Cons : NEW ORLEANS COMIC CON JANUARY 28-29, 2012 SAT-SUN New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center : New Orleans Comic Con 2012 Wizard World Convention JANUARY 28-29, 2012 SAT-SUN

AFICIONADO REVIEW: "OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN"

2011-12-13T12:37:00.000Z

OEUVRE- DREW STRUZAN

By Drew and Dylan Struzan

Published in the UK by TITAN BOOKS

Reviewed by Scott Weller

The power of the written word should never be underestimated, nor that of the intrinsic value of the artistic form, especially in the intriguing and diverse world of commercial entertainment. Within that realm one man reigns supreme in his artistic career as a top illustrator of movie posters and commercial art: Drew Struzan.

It's rare that people can achieve personal, professional, artistic and commercial success all in one go within their continuing lifetime and experiences, but then Struzan is no ordinary talent, clearly enjoying the best of all worlds in the perfect job, and perfect life, he was meant to have, as shown in his latest compendium of iconic artwork- OEUVRE – DREW STRUZAN- written and compiled by both the artist and his wife Dylan, and which proves a fine and fitting testament to his incredible and well deserved achievements so far in the commercial illustration business, and whose beautiful and impressive work

past, present and future, before Photoshop sadly killed the fine art of movie conception and realisation, would create an important visual channel into the hearts and minds, young and old, of the general movie going public, especially in the all dominant American cinema-going market.

Some readers may not necessarily know Struzan’s name but they will certainly recognise his incredible artistic skills as being amongst the forefront of some of the most evocative and beautiful movie poster art ever seen for some of the world and for some of Hollywood’s greatest films over the last forty years. From STAR WARS to INDIANA JONES, and other enduring cinematic masterpieces like BLADE RUNNER, THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION and E.T.: THE EXTRA TERRESTRIAL, as well as populist hits like the early HARRY POTTER movies, etc., to right up to the present day, including promotional art for ambitious hit television series like the atmospheric new classic THE WALKING DEAD, Struzan’s work spans all genres and is much beloved and trusted by actors and film-makers: beloved by fellow visualists including pioneers like Frank Darabont, Steven Spielberg, George Lucas and iconic actors like Harrison Ford-of whom Struzan is the only artist the film star likes handling his movie poster art, especially when it concerns the adventures of the legendary Indiana Jones. Struzan is certainly one of the most collectible artists of his generation, too; Darabont regards him as one of the top three greatest movie illustrators of all time, whose gorgeous and involving work has in some places proved better than the film’s they’ve promoted!

From undeserved impoverished conditions and regular isolation as a child, Drew Struzan found his love of illustration a natural way of garnering life skills and worked hard to make ends meet. Soon finding his independent feet within the music industry at the right time and place, his career rainbow quickly blossomed into his love and natural flair for movie poster illustration, coming to the fore in the mid to late seventies, of which an artistic legend and integrity fuelled personality was born...

With the previous THE ART OF DREW STRUZAN collection having been such a critical and commercial success, this new selection contains his most defined and beloved work yet, OEUVRE shows us a wonderful world of love, colour, and excitement, youthful spirited innocence, mystery and danger, as you explore the books vast thematic range and cross a wide variety of genres: from comedy, to drama, to action and adventure. There’s a beautiful style and epic quality to Struzan’s work that captures the films so well and resonates strongly with the eye.

Beyond the incredible poster work-containing many items/projects I wasn’t previously aware of his association to- there’s also a look at other areas of Struzan’s prolific and sumptuous artistic career: his work in books, trading cards, special comic book covers, stamps and plates devoted to classic inspirational heroes of celluloid music and real life, from film stars to royalty, alongside an intriguing look at the artists life and career so far, his thought processes and how he handles and enjoys his craft as an artist, alongside his loyal wife Dylan.

There's also a personal look at the artist beyond the movies: his imagery and interpretation of the beauty of a life in all its facets. From the joy of being with his wife and family, to friends and children, and to the mystery and fulfilment of the human body, and the incredible wildlife of planet Earth. All of this proudly and justifiably part of the overall rich tapestry of a true one/off talent at the very top of his game...

The creative joy of all these pieces coming together will be shared by the reader as they peruse its nostalgic and celebratory image selections, where Struzan’s spirit, imagination and Joie de Vivre will continue to resonate wherever good art is appreciated…

The book may be called Oeuvre but Struzan is not saying goodbye with this volume. Think of it as the most ambitious of his collected works so far. The visual language of his stunning work, alongside his integrity, depth of humanity and emotional resonance, will continue to make its mark and flourish long after we’re gone…

Beautifully published by the UK’s TITAN BOOKS, OEUVRE – DREW STRUZAN is truly a coffee table book/portfolio to savour, as well as one that friends and family will surely be fighting over to look at and admire during the holiday season.

AFICIONADO RATING: 4 out of 5

Check out our gallery selection of classic Struzan poster art here: STAR WARS AFICIONADO MAGAZINE: DREW STRUZAN

Order your copy of OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Books

ILM CLASSIC IMAGE: TO LIGHT A STAR DESTROYER...

2011-12-12T11:22:00.000Z

At the US Van Nuys based warehouse/garage sometime in late 1976/ early 1977, ILM technician Doug Smith puts a light meter to the upside down filmed small Imperial Star Destroyer model built for use in the opening sequence of the original, classic STAR WARS. Incredibly, despite its size, and through clever camera photography and optical compositing, the space vessel would look huge, menacing and bristling with firepower in its onscreen theatrical debut- the "Wow" shot successfully realized to launch the timeless adventure!

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. AN AFICIONADO GALLERY TRIBUTE: NUMBER TEN

2011-12-12T11:21:00.000Z

Our final celebration of Drew Struzan's incredible movie poster works brings us back to the world of Harrison Ford, this time alongside current James Bond Daniel Craig, as the formidable hero duo take on fearsome extra terrestrial aggressors threatening the Earth, in Jon Favreau's recent sci-fi/western action hybrid: COWBOYS & ALIENS. Sadly, for reasons not fully known, this fine art was ultimately not used in the film's final poster campaign-presumably because it showed the alien creatures appearance too far in advance for the audiences? Regardess of what the ultimate reasoning was, it's still another fine addition to the creative genius that is Drew Struzan.

Struzan's latest compendium of superb art: OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN, written by Drew and Dylan Struzan, and beautifully published by TITAN BOOKS, is now available as the perfect Christmas gift. Get it here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Film & TV

COWBOYS & ALIENS is available on Blu-ray and DVD in the US now. It's out in the UK from December 26th. Cowboys & Aliens - Triple Play Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy Region Free: Amazon.co.uk: Olivia Wilde, Harrison Ford, Daniel Craig, Sam Rockwell, Keith Carradine, Jon Favreau: Film & TV

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. AN AFICIONADO GALLERY TRIBUTE: NUMBER NINE

2011-12-11T12:01:00.000Z

Our ninth gallery image celebration of iconic illustrator Drew Struzan needs very little introduction. It's one of the most recognised and beloved images of all time linked to the original movie: the classic 1978 Style "D" re-release poster for the film, commissioned when the film continued its incredible summer theatrical run across the United States, and shown here in its Spanish form. On this special image, Struzan worked with another famed illustrator: Charlie White.

It's beautiful. Nuff said!

For more on Drew Struzan's stunning work, his latest specially selected compendium of classic art, spanning nearly forty years, is now available: OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN, written by Dylan and Drew Struzan, and lavishly printed by TITAN BOOKS. Get hold of your copy for Christmas here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Books

AFICIONADO REVIEW: " SHADOW GAMES"

2011-12-11T11:58:00.001Z

AFICIONADO REVIEW: "SHADOW GAMES"

A novel by Michael Reaves and Maya Kaathryn Bohnhoff

Published in the UK by ARROW BOOKS

Reviewed by Scott Weller

It's STAR WARS meets THE BODYGUARD in this new literary confection from popular Expanded Universe authors Michael Reaves and Maya Kaathryn Bohnhoff, as that popular and cocky Corellian smuggler from the early nineties SHADOWS OF THE EMPIRE multi-platform storytelling arc, Dash Rendar, returns for a spirited new adventure: SHADOW GAMES, published in paperback in the UK from ARROW BOOKS.

And this time, Rendar really has got his hands full in a shortly before A NEW HOPE set storyline that sees him and the crew of his Outrider smuggling ship- the wisecracking smart arse droid with a touch of FRASIER's Niles Crane about him: Leebo, and the mysterious and talented Nautolan co-pilot Eaden Vrill- having hit bad fortune from the prior blasts of an Imperial Star Destroyer chase, soon find themselves in the unlikely commission of a galaxy popular music star, Javul Charn, whom they quickly have to protect from the clutches of a deadly, and so far untraceable, stalker. The only problem being that said menace has a motus operandi so sophisticated and clever that he/she/they could be working either inside or out of the colourful and persuasive singers universe: and a killer whom could be lurking/operating from within her key staff and entourage located inside her expansive universe travelling private yacht, or being safely embedded within the millions of fans-human and alien- who flock to her ambitious concerts and relentlessly adore and pursue both her and her music career. Even the Galactic Empire itself, alongside the seedy underworld of the Black Sun criminal organisation, the latter of whom she seemingly has unseverable and life-threatened links, may have ties to this unrecognised foe. Dash may have the skills to unravel and remove the complex strands of lies, deceit and attempts on Javul's life- a woman of whom he is now well and truly under the beguiling spell of- but can even he ultimately guarantee her safety?

Authors of recent STAR WARS books have hit or miss incorporated elements from our own modern times into their series (I'm assuming so as to try and capture new younger readerships who have previously stayed away from the saga in its printed form). There has previously been a look/focus at the way news has been reported and manipulated in the FATE OF THE JEDI series, and here we have under the spotlight the life, times and world of a singer whose presence and popularity is Beyonce-like: Javul Charn is sassy, beautiful and consistently under the spotlight. Throughout the book, her position as a popular music star is certainly well explored amidst the drama and action of George Lucas's universe, where she comes across as a mostly well-developed character: feisty and possessing brains and absolute beauty, soon proving a fine, if secretive, sometimes elusive, foil for the big-headed, but ultimately big-hearted Dash Rendar in their journey of life, death and the entertainment industry. As for Rendar himself, with the prior SHADOWS OF THE EMPIRE set between the important events of THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK and RETURN OF THE JEDI, his appearance at that then point in the saga saw him as an almost replacement for Han Solo, what with Harrison Ford's popular smugger now taken away to Jabba's palace on Tatooine, life-binded in Carbon Freeze. Now SHADOW GAMES presents us with a fun situation where both Rendar, having escaped Solo's limelight, has no choice, and despite some intense bitterness, but to call upon his old smuggling rival, pre-EMPIRE, for help, resulting in the character fireworks soon flying as they work to save Javul's life. Ultimately, theirs a fun pairing- an intriguing combination of Lucas and Expanded Universe creations, and the writers obviously have a lot of enjoyment creating their traded insults and oneupmanship as they take on all manner of weird and wonderful creatures, a recurring nuisance bounty hunter and the wrath of Black Sun's evil Falleen leader, Prince Xizor. The lovable Chewbacca the Wookiee, co-pilot of Solo's trusted Millennium Falcon, may not be in the tale, but his absence explanation is well thought out, especially if you like The Holiday Special! The authors interpretation of Solo, not always easy to bring to life on the written page (or Kindle), also works for the most part, and there's fun referencing/ linkages to future events and very familiar characters, as well as the usual mixing of worlds from across the three separate strands of STAR WARS universes: films, expanded and animation.

So, like all of Reaves prior tales in a galaxy far, far away, the ingredients are there for an interesting side road STAR WARS yarn. It may not be in the ambitious mega-league of Timothy Zahn-like books, but its strongly structured, full of wit and well described action (some of which feels a little James Bond-like, too), making it a perfect holiday read.

AFICIONADO RATING: 3.5 out of 5

BEHIND THE SCENES IMAGE: TWO TYPES OF MASTER!

2011-12-10T13:24:00.001Z

Man of many talents Frank Oz, still in the heyday of his Muppet work, gets down and dirty on the Dagobah floor set at ELSTREE STUDIOS, alongside one of his puppeteering assistants, to operate the Stuart Freeborn created Yoda for a key dramatic scene of THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK.

Prior to the ultimate puppet creation being realized, a very basic idea of what Yoda would ultimately look like had been constructed, primarily for reference use by the various department heads working on the film. Despite its age, this incredible early puppet, made of polyfoam, filled with buckwheat and possessing a burlap coat, has recently been put up for online auction. Check out the full info here (with thanks to Chris Baker for the heads-up): Yoda on-set rehearsal puppet from Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. AN AFICIONADO GALLERY TRIBUTE: NUMBER EIGHT

2011-12-10T13:16:00.000Z

Sandwiched between his audience appealing heroic portrayals of space smuggler Han Solo and archaeologist Indiana Jones, Harrison Ford's intriguing, world weary and often emotionally cold replicant tracking detective Rick Deckard-forced out of retirement in aiding the Earth's Blade Runner units- on the beat within the incredibly dark and rain consumed world of 2019, marvellously brought to stylised life by visualist supremo Ridley Scott in the movie BLADE RUNNER (based on "an incident" from Philip K. Dick's classic novel DO ANDROIDS DREAM OF ELECTRIC SHEEP?), may not have originally won the hearts and minds of the American public in its first screenings in 1982, but the film has since gone on, thankfully, to prove itself as a masterpiece of not only pure science fiction but of art house cinema as well. STAR WARS and INDIANA JONES may have become instant icons adored the world over, but by the nineties BLADE RUNNER would nobly join them in the ranks of movie fans and critics appreciations the world over, and often going on to appear in the many "Top 100 films you must see before you die" type of lists you always see in print and online form these days!

In its strikingly fascinating and morally complex storytelling world of human and android, where its often difficult to determine whom belongs to which category, celebrated artist/movie poster creator icon Drew Struzan brings us his superb take on the films marvellous and diverse characters- heroes, villains (of a sort) and underdogs- amidst a portion of the films miasma clashing cultures and environments, headlined by Ford in ultimately one of his career best performances.

For more on Drew Struzan's incredible film and television work, his latest beautifully published portfolio of work, OEUVRE- DREW STRUZAN, written by Drew and Dylan Struzan and published by TITAN BOOKS, is out now and contains a stunning body of evocative work that will make you fall in love with Cinema, and its greatest movies and characters, all over again...

Purchase OEUVRE: DREW STRUZAN via AMAZON here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Books

Check out this fun Harrison Ford 1982 interview about BLADE RUNNER here: Harrison Ford 1982 on Letterman, Part 1, promoting Blade Runner, Raiders of the Lost Ark - YouTube and KOOL TV's blog on the BLADE RUNNER behind the scenes documentary DANGEROUS DAYS: CREATIVE FORCES: HARRISON FORD AND RIDLEY SCOTT- TOGETHER FOR "DANGEROUS DAYS" MAKING "BLADE RUNNER" | KOOL TV

CLASSIC IMAGE: "SANDPEOPLE...OR WORSE!"

2011-12-09T11:07:00.000Z

Atop a canyon, and with rifle ready, a careful Luke, with the Protocol Droid See-Threepio behind him, surveys the valley below looking for the fearsome Sandpeople. The young farm boy, however, in unaware that they have already found him!

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. AN AFICIONADO GALLERY TRIBUTE: PART SEVEN

2011-12-09T11:00:00.000Z

Our celebration of the iconic artwork of Drew Struzan, and his recently released book OEUVRE, continues today with the second beautiful cover for the 1997 re-print/update of the book GEORGE LUCAS: THE CREATIVE IMPULSE, by Charles Champlin. The highly successful work, and its wonderful use of STAR WARS, INDIANA JONES and THX-1138 characters, would also be used as a poster for American readers of the long running STAR WARS INSIDER magazine.

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN, by Drew and Dylan Struzan, and stylishly published by TITAN BOOKS, is available from AMAZON here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Books

CLASSIC IMAGE: SHELL-SHOCKED!

2011-12-08T15:44:00.000Z

In the garage of the Lars Homestead of Tatooine, and watched by Owen Lars, Padme Amidala looks at her handiwork in successfully putting on the shell frame of C-3PO, in this sadly deleted sequence from EPISODE II: ATTACK OF THE CLONES: a classic moment which frustratingly appeared only in brief clips on the COMPLETE STAR WARS SAGA Blu-ray and in behind the scenes footage on an earlier 2001 VHS video release.

With thanks to ADYWAN for the screen capture.

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. AN AFICIONADO GALLERY TRIBUTE: PART SIX

2011-12-08T15:43:00.000Z

Within the exciting and evocative canvas world of movie poster art, no one manages to capture Harrison Ford's unique and iconic portrayal of the bold and adventurous archaeologist Indiana Jones quite like Drew Struzan. So much so that the equally iconic artist/painter is the only person that the actor specifically trusts to handle poster work for both himself as an actor and Indy as a character: the ultimate personal accolade and sign of confidence and trust that one could ever hope to receive from the legendary film star-who, over the years, has proved himself both a professional, hard-working actor and a very private person.

The superb image above is but one of many iconic pieces of movie related art to be found in OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN, written by Drew and Dylan Struzan, and beautifully published by TITAN BOOKS. A perfect Christmas present, order your copy here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Books

CLASSIC IMAGE: A LEADER OF COURAGE AND TENACITY

2011-12-07T11:34:00.000Z

The original Mon Mothma (as played by British actress Caroline Blakiston, who recently announced her sad retirement from attending/signing US STAR WARS conventions), speaks to her assembled Rebel forces- both Human and alien, and from all parts of the galaxy-about the daring new mission to destroy the Death Star II and The Emperor, in this not often seen image from RETURN OF THE JEDI.

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. AN AFICIONADO GALLERY TRIBUTE: PART FIVE

2011-12-07T11:33:00.000Z

The best of both STAR WARS universes are on proud display in our next gallery image celebrating the superb artistic achievements of artist Drew Struzan during his incredible entertainment career, and as illustrated in his newly revised book OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. This image was originally done as a cover for a US role playing book, but, outside of that arena, it has gone on to become a fine and wonderful testament to the history durable heroes from both of George Lucas iconic STAR WARS Trilogies- Classic and Prequel- whose varied and timeless battles of good and evil continue to excite, enthuse and spellbind audiences worldwide.

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN, written by Drew and Dylan Struzan, and lavishly published by TITAN BOOKS, can be obtained via AMAZON here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Books

CLASSIC ART: THE LIGHTSABER THAT BINDS...

2011-12-06T10:46:00.000Z

Here's another splendid and original piece of STAR WARS art from Adriano Ticiano, showing the complex and conflicted Jedi bonds between Father and Son- Anakin Skywalker, now Darth Vader, and Luke Skywalker- as the drama reaches its epic conclusion in RETURN OF THE JEDI.

Great work, Adriano!

BEHIND THE SCENES IMAGE: TAUNTAUN TEST

2011-12-06T10:40:00.000Z

Two ELSTREE technicians become Luke and Han atop a Stuart Freeborn team created Tauntaun prop, for a costume/reference test prior to the film's ambitious and weather hostile Norway location shoot in March 1979. Note that Han Solo's costume was originally created for use by Harrison Ford within a studio and later proved completely impracticable in sustaining heat in Finse.

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. AN AFICIONADO GALLERY TRIBUTE: NUMBER FOUR

2011-12-06T10:39:00.000Z

Our gallery tribute to the incredible career of artist Drew Struzan continues with a non STAR WARS image this time, but one which had certainly carried the affection of the saga's fans for thirty years: Steven Spielberg's timeless and unforgettable 1982 classic E.T. The Extra Terrestrial. With the famous finger and its touching "phone home" catch line, the little alien, big google eyes as part of a lovable face, would capture and melt the hearts and minds of children and adults the world over, and whose memorable scenes with young human Elliott would forever become a part of film history. Struzan's poster work, showing an enchanting E.T. in the front of his friends bike as it flies into space, perfectly captures the thrill and wonder of the now timeless classic.

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN, written by Drew and Dylan Struzan, and published by TITAN BOOKS, can be obtained via AMAZON here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Books

OUT ON BLU-RAY AND DVD THIS MONTH: "COWBOYS & ALIENS"

2011-12-05T11:34:00.000Z

Beyond its small town woes and dangerous underbelly of corruption, the citizens of Absolution are about to get the surprise and shock of their lives when they soon find themselves fighting for their survival against the arrival of a deadly alien race intent on using them and the planets resources for their own mysterious means. Can the unlikely combined forces of fugitive criminal Jake Lonergan (Daniel Craig) and the roguish Woodrow Dolarhyde (Harrison Ford) save the day, if not only for the townsfolk but the entire planet Earth?

Find out what happens in this fun and inventive new genre combo, executive produced by Ron Howard and Steven Spielberg, and directed with grit by IRON MAN's Jon Favreau. It can only be COWBOYS & ALIENS, made by PARAMOUNT PICTURES, arriving in standard film and extended cut form on DVD and Blu-ray, with lots of special features, in the US from December 6th, and in the UK from December 28th.

Here's a couple of BTS clips from the upcoming release; Cowboys & Aliens - Stunts Montage - Own it 12/6 on Blu-ray Combo Pack - YouTube and Cowboys & Aliens - A Classic Western - Own it 12/6 on Blu-ray Combo Pack - YouTube

Get it via AMAZON here: Cowboys & Aliens - Triple Play Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy Region Free: Amazon.co.uk: Olivia Wilde, Harrison Ford, Daniel Craig, Sam Rockwell, Keith Carradine, Jon Favreau: Film & TV

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. AN AFICIONADO GALLERY TRIBUTE: PART THREE

2011-12-05T11:33:00.000Z

Our tribute to the influential and iconic artist Drew Struzan continues with our third gallery entry, and one which certainly caught the eye in late 1982/early 1983: showing the commanding presence of Darth Vader in REVENGE OF THE JEDI. I remember seeing this bold and black/red poster in January 1983 inside the foyer of London's Dominion Theatre, framed with the words COMING SOON boldly attached on the wall leading up to the first floor steps. I recall being entranced by the image and the mystery of Darth Vader-was the important issue of his being Luke's father going to be finally addressed? At the bottom of the poster were Luke and the Dark Lord lightsaber fighting: surely a re-match was on the cards that would hopefully live up to the spectacular sequence witnessed during the finale of EMPIRE. So many things to look forward to, but if any artist could help build momentum, imagination and excitement to such an important film it was Drew Struzan.

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN, written by Drew and Dylan Struzan, and published by TITAN BOOKS, can now be obtained via AMAZON UK here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Books

CLASSIC IMAGE: GRIEVOUS TAKE-DOWN!

2011-12-04T12:59:00.001Z

It may be an "uncivilised" last resort, but Obi-Wan's blaster skills are eventually put to good use in neutralising Separatist scourge, droid commander General Grievous, during their final battle on Utapau, as part of the dramatic events of EPISODE III: REVENGE OF THE SITH.

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. AN AFICIONADO GALLERY TRIBUTE: NUMBER TWO

2011-12-04T12:53:00.000Z

Our celebration of Drew Struzan's beautiful work within his new book - OEUVRE - continues with this lovely poster art used in various territories (including Japan and America) for the Tenth Anniversary of RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK in 1981, as the artist perfectly captures the mystery, suspense and action of the film and its characters, and in particular Indiana Jones, of whom Struzan would have a long and popular career illustrating the hero right up to the eventual release of INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL.

Purchase OEUVRE, written by Drew and Dylan Struzan, and published by TITAN BOOKS, via AMAZON here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Books

ILM CLASSIC IMAGE: REBEL ENGAGEMENT

2011-12-03T14:46:00.000Z

This particular space battle sadly wasn't to be seen in RETURN OF THE JEDI- I love the X-wing fighter turning the tables and pursuing Darth Vader's personal TIE fighter!- but its a memorable and iconic ILM composite image nonetheless, and one which graced the cover of a popular book about the effects company- INDUSTRIAL LIGHT & MAGIC: THE ART OF SPECIAL EFFECTS, by Thomas G. Smith- way back in 1986.

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN. AN AFICIONADO GALLERY TRIBUTE: PART ONE

2011-12-03T13:51:00.001Z

To celebrate the recent release of multi-talented and iconic American artist Drew Struzan's beautiful new book OEUVRE: a unique final published celebration of his incredible 40 years plus life and career in art, movie poster illustration and commercial work, of which he is admired the world over and remains at the peak of his creative powers, STAR WARS AFICIONADO, in tribute to the man who creates such evocative and memorable work, thought it would put up ten of our favourite art pieces that appear in the new book - one a day - that comprise an incredible body of superb and memorable work specially selected for inclusion by the author, and in a beautiful package presented by TITAN BOOKS.

Interview: Legendary Poster Artist Drew Struzan. - YouTube

First up, above is the nostalgic front and back cover by Struzan that accompanied the first printing of the book GEORGE LUCAS: THE CREATIVE IMPULSE from 1992, which successfully summed up the STAR WARS/INDIANA JONES creators work up to that point...

OEUVRE - DREW STRUZAN, written by Drew and Dylan Struzan, can be obtained via AMAZON here: Drew Struzan: Oeuvre: Amazon.co.uk: Drew Struzan, Dylan Struzan: Books

And look out for our review of the book shortly...

CLASSIC IMAGE: THE WAR OF THE STARS!

2011-12-02T11:23:00.000Z

Today's kids and kid-ults have never had it so good with regards to what they can get STAR WARS toys and accessories-wise, but things weren't so bad in 1978, either, with the release of the first of many waves of KENNER/PALITOY figures and the AMC/MECCANO model kits worldwide. I loved that early classic set of 12 figures-some of which can be seen in these French toy adverts- and my childhood was absolutely packed with incredible STAR WARS adventures that tried to match the epic visions seen in the first movie.

CLASSIC ART: LEIA'S TURN...

2011-12-02T10:14:00.001Z

Ever since she boldly held her own against Darth Vader in the captured bridge of the Rebel Blockade Runner, and later his brutal interrogation techniques on the Death Star, I've always wanted to see our plucky Princess Leia get some payback and take on the Dark Lord of the Sith in a fight. If not with a blaster then certainly with a lightsaber, and that's exactly what we get in part of the finale action of Alan Dean Foster's terrific 1978 original novel featuring her and Luke: SPLINTER OF THE MIND'S EYE, as she handles a lightsaber against the Sith Lord when Luke is briefly out of the fight.

It's a great Leia's a badass moment that I wish had been in one of the films, here nicely realised in art form. I don't know who the artist who did this piece is- I'm assuming it's either Chris Trevas or Hugh Fleming-but it's terrific.

For more on SPLINTER, check out our definitive AFICIONADO archive: SPLINTER OF THE MIND'S EYE

ILM CLASSIC IMAGE: FALCON CRAFTING...

2011-12-01T11:54:00.000Z

In late 1975/early 1976, a new version of Han Solo's classic smuggling vessel, the Millennium Falcon, is quickly designed and realised by the ILM team for use in the original STAR WARS. Here, two model makers begin adding the required fine detail to one of its varying size models.

Check out this brilliant YOUTUBE fan video showing the interior and exterior of the Falcon within Mos Eisley's Docking Bay 94. It's a brilliant piece of work: Millennium Falcon Walkthrough - YouTube

CLASSIC IMAGE: BLUE 'SABER, DARK HEART!

2011-11-30T12:49:00.000Z

The eye of the storm: the Sith powered Darth Vader, once Jedi hero Anakin Skywalker, follows the wilful orders of his new master, Darth Sidious, in the closing half of EPISODE III: REVENGE OF THE SITH.

STAR WARS: EPISODE ONE - 3-D. NEW PICTURES...

2011-11-29T18:26:00.000Z

Here's a couple of new colour images released today by LUCASFILM/FOX for next February's upcoming 3-D theatrical release of EPISODE ONE: THE PHANTOM MENACE. Darth Maul (Ray Park) will surely look more menacing and formidable than ever back on the big screen, whilst heroic and noble Jedi Knight Qui-Gon Jinn (Liam Neeson), with Obi-Wan Kenobi alongside him, will once more be there to defy the Sith warrior.

More news, pics and info on the STAR WARS movie event of 2012 as and when...

CLASSIC RAIDERS: INDY FIGHTS BACK!

2011-11-29T14:25:00.000Z

Almost down but not out from the mighty fists of a German bully (played by Classic Indy Trilogy action veteran Pat Roach), as well as at life-threatening risk from the dangers of the moving propellered underside of a flying wing, Indiana Jones summons all his personal strength and physical ingenuity to make a successful fightback whilst trying to re-claim the Lost Ark.

A cheer out loud classic moment from RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK.

ILM CLASSIC IMAGE: ICE BASE DEPARTURE!

2011-11-29T12:23:00.001Z

In the now abandoned Rebel base hangar on the ice planet of Hoth, Han and Chewie, in the Millennium Falcon cockpit, get ready to escape the attacking Imperial forces in this early storyboard (artist unknown-presumably Joe Johnston) for THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK. Note in this image that Han is wearing a snow outfit and goggles rather than his normal space pilot fatigues.

CLASSIC IMAGE: BIRTH OF "A NEW HOPE"

2011-11-27T11:36:00.000Z

On the faraway asteroid archeological base station of Polis Massa, the question of which Skywalker child was born first is finally answered in the closing scenes of EPISODE III: REVENGE OF THE SITH, as newborn Luke is revealed to his dying mother, Padme Amidala Skywalker, by his new protector, Obi-Wan Kenobi.

ILM CLASSIC IMAGE: LITTLE LEIA!

2011-11-26T10:46:00.000Z

For the complex speeder bike filming at ILM in mid to late 1982, small puppets of Luke and Leia were additionally created in the finest detail for the go-motion blue screen photography supervised by Phil Tippett...

CLASSIC IMAGE: UNDERCOVER EWOK!

2011-11-25T11:41:00.000Z

An Ewok warrior-note its distinctive dead beast headwear!- emerges from a hidden spot in the Endor forests so as to help capture our Rebel heroes, in a family "ahhhh" moment from RETURN OF THE JEDI...

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL U.S. AFICIONADO READERS!

2011-11-24T16:12:00.000Z

Han and Leia enjoy some quality food time with the Imperials in STAR WARS: ROBOT CHICKEN 2. Image: ADULT SWIM.

Robot Chicken cloud city dinner - YouTube

CLASSIC IMAGE: JEDI-TO-BE...

2011-11-24T11:29:00.000Z

A young Ewan McGregor, then fresh from his recent movie success in TRAINSPOTTING, strikes a defiant pose as Jedi Padawan Obi-Wan Kenobi, in this slightly different posed studio out-take promotional image taken for EPISODE ONE: THE PHANTOM MENACE, which returns back to cinemas in 3-D next February.

CLASSIC IMAGE: TO PROTECT CLONE INTERESTS...

2011-11-23T10:30:00.000Z

A protective fleet of Republic cruisers line up in orbit above the water world of Kamino, whose people make the vital, all-important Clone Troopers that protect the galaxy-and whose critical participation in the war makes it a tempting, prized target for revenge fuelled, Sith manipulated Separatist forces in their bid to take control.

A great visual moment from the excellent THE CLONE WARS Season Three episode ARC TROOPERS, now available on WARNER BROTHERS DVD and Blu-ray as part of its box-set.

BEHIND THE SCENES IMAGE: REBEL SURPRISE!

2011-11-22T12:52:00.001Z

On the blue screened Super Star Destroyer Bridge set, Kenneth Colley as Admiral Piett (left) and one of his Star Destroyer Captains (played by UK actor Pip Miller: his voice in the final film was re-dubbed by a US actor (name unknown) in Post-Production. The character would later be given the EU name of Gherant), get ready to film their observations of the Imperial trap newly sprung on the Rebel Fleet above Endor, in a behind the scenes image from the shooting of REVENGE OF THE JEDI, somewhere between February and April 1982.

"A NEW HOPE"s NEW INTERPRETATION!

2011-11-21T14:53:00.002Z

Here's a great image from 2008 I hadn't seen before from the very talented Australian artist Daniel James Cox showing us the opening scene from the original STAR WARS, of Darth Vader and the Imperial Stormtroopers boarding the Rebel Blockade Runner. But, in a nice visual twist, as they might have looked had they stayed true to legendary artist Ralph McQuarrie's original conceptual drawings. Its a terrific and inspired interpretation of a classic and iconic moment of film history, and makes me wish it had made it into the finished movie!

Check out more of Daniel's work here: A Little Golden Blog

For fans of Ralph McQuarrie's work in general, his loyal behind the scenes friends/team have done a complete and highly impressive re-imagining of his website, full of great examples of his work over the years, and covering all kinds of subjects, as well as lots of other cool features linked to his career beyond STAR WARS that are equally worth discovering. Check out his beautiful site here: Home - News

CLASSIC RAIDERS: MAKING A MARK!

2011-11-21T14:53:00.000Z

The evil Nazi spy Toht (a brilliant performance of comedy and creepiness from the much missed British actor Ronald Lacey) gets a major burn, and some additional intriguing new skin markings, when he attempts to retrieve Marion Ravenwood's prized medallion within the fiery shell of her Nepalese bar/nightspot, in this classic moment from Indiana Jones premiere 1981 adventure: RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK.

And speaking of "fortune and glory" seekers, check out the first fifteen minutes or so of fan documentarian Jamie Benning's RAIDING THE LOST ARK: A FILMUMENTARY, via his FACEBOOK page: Raiding The Lost Ark

MARK HAMILL'S TRIP TO "BLIGHTY"!

2011-11-18T15:10:00.002Z

Here's a great and very rare UK interview with Mark Hamill, conducted at the Imperial College London from near Xmas 1977, when he did the promotional rounds for STAR WARS London Xmas release (though this interview was obviously intended for screening in early 1978, when the film was eventually released nationwide throughout the country). Hamill proves as enthusiastic and friendly as ever, and there's some lively anecdotes. The presenter has seen the film and does ask some good questions here and there, despite some occasional awkwardness. It's interesting that Hamill was going on from this interview to appear on the UK's BBC 1 children's magazine show BLUE PETER- a show the actor fondly enjoyed watching whilst making STAR WARS at ELSTREE in the summer of 1976.

An interview with Mark Hamill - YouTube

With thanks to MHSAYERS for making this excellent slice of STAR WARS history available to fans via YOUTUBE.

With thanks to Ian Trussler for the late 1977 image of Mark as Luke.

BEHIND THE SCENES: THE GILLARD TECHNIQUE!

2011-11-18T14:46:00.000Z

Uber Stunt Coordinator and epic Prequel lightsaber duel choreographer Nick Gillard (seen here behind the scenes of EPISODE ONE, with Ewan McGregor) is having a special lightsaber master class/seminar in Los Angeles in January 2012. Find out more about how you can celebrate, experience and replicate Anakin Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi's classic sword play here:

Swordplay Fencing Studios Light Saber Seminars

HAPPY LIFE DAY!!

2011-11-17T20:42:00.000Z

Yes, you know what that means...and we're never going to let George forget it!

CLASSIC IMAGE: WAR-TIME!

2011-11-16T15:17:00.000Z

Brave ARC troopers go on the attack within the Muunilist capital in Genndy Tartakovsky's superb first season of CLONE WARS for LUCASFILM/CARTOON NETWORK from 2003. Annoyingly, still no sign of a Blu-ray release for this great series.

ILM CLASSIC IMAGE: ARMOUR TESTING...

2011-11-15T13:40:00.000Z

Here's a late 1978/early 1979 ILM test photo of Boba Fett's costume as it gets ever nearer to its final on-screen look for the upcoming UK filming of THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK.

CLASSIC IMAGE: SETTING THE BAR!

2011-11-14T17:37:00.000Z

With Jedi Master Yoda on his back, Luke continues his Jedi training-here trying to use his lightsaber to turn a thrown metal bar into pieces. A once much desired deleted scene from the sequences set on Dagobah for THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK, and recently released on the STAR WARS: THE COMPLETE SAGA Blu-ray.

With thanks to ADYWAN for the grab image.

BEHIND THE SCENES IMAGE: THE DEPARTED...

2011-11-12T11:20:00.000Z

On Tatooine, located behind the Lars Homestead, the sad funeral marker/stone of Shmi Skywalker joins several other unknown names in this unseen-in-detail moment from the Tunisian location filming for EPISODE II: ATTACK OF THE CLONES.

Outside of the universe of STAR WARS, lets also look back and remember the real-life sacrifices of the brave men and women across the world this past ninety years plus on the always important Remembrance Sunday. Honour the heroism they gave with their lives so as to protect our liberty and values.

CLASSIC IMAGE: EMPIRE DAYS!

2011-11-11T15:41:00.000Z

Against a green screen background (representing the bridge of an Imperial Cruiser) at the FOX STUDIOS, Australia, Darth Sidious (Ian McDiarmid) and his terrifying new apprentice, Darth Vader (Hayden Christensen), reflect on their evil machinations to come, as they watch the prototype Death Star battle station begin construction.

CLASSIC IMAGE: BENDING THE RULES OF THE JEDI MANDATE...

2011-11-10T12:29:00.000Z

The adolescent Anakin Skywalker and his Jedi Knight Master, Obi-Wan Kenobi, come to verbal blows over their new assignment to protect the life of Senator Amidala, in a fine dramatic moment- a hint of their often tense and prickly relationship to come- from EPISODE II: ATTACK OF THE CLONES.

BEHIND THE SCENES IMAGE: NO HYPERDIVE!

2011-11-09T14:03:00.000Z

An interesting EPISODE ONE on-set image of the interior of the Naboo Royal Cruiser, specifically the section containing the damaged Hyperdrive generator. You never quite get to see the device in all its visual glory in the finished movie. A much larger version of a Hyperdrive can be seen within the immense engine area of General Grievous's Ion Cannon berthed cruiser, the Malevolence, in THE CLONE WARS Season One episode Destroy Malevolence.

CLASSIC IMAGE: MEETING THE EMPEROR AND MOTIVATING THE TROOPS!

2011-11-07T14:25:00.002Z

The evil stately figures of Lord Darth Vader and Moff Jerjerrod, Commander of the Death Star II, flanked by legions of Imperial officers of all dignitaries and rank, await the emergence of their supreme leader-The Emperor-in this fun behind the scenes image taken during filming for RETURN OF THE JEDI at ELSTREE, on the legendary STAR WARS STAGE in 1982.

The earlier sequence in the film, where Vader first arrives at the battle station, so as to "motivate" Jerjerrod's men in completing the space station has now been "recreated" and given a new spin for the UK's CURRYS/PC WORLD chain of electrical stores in this fun new commercial, which exclusively aired in the UK this past weekend: Currys PC World 2011 Official Ad - Vader's Visit Director's Cut (Darth Vader Star Wars) - YouTube

And here's the behind the scenes featurette on YouTube: Currys PCWorld Official - Making Of Vader - YouTube